What’s on your back-to-school checklist? Probably school supplies, parent-teacher conferences, and meal prepping. What about a sleep health check-in? Adequate sleep is vital for both students and parents to perform their best, yet a condition like sleep apnea can be stealthily stealing your family’s rest.
As you navigate the return to school, get a dental checkup with a sleep apnea dentist in Manhattan. Morningside Dental Care’s team can make sure your family is well-rested and ready to tackle the new year’s challenges.
What Our Sleep Apnea Dentist in Manhattan Looks for
Sleep apnea causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions cause fragmented sleep and reduced blood oxygen levels. Common symptoms include:
- Loud Snoring
- Gasping for Air During Sleep
- Excessive Daytime Fatigue
- Concentration and Attention Difficulties
- Awakening with Dry Mouth
- Morning Headaches
It’s easy to chalk up these symptoms to general tiredness, busy schedules, or stress. This is especially true for parents during busy periods like back-to-school season. However, untreated sleep apnea can significantly affect daily life, leading to difficulties at work, reduced productivity, and an overall decline in quality of life.
Sleep Apnea in Children and Teens
Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect adults. In young individuals, signs of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea include behavioral issues, poor academic performance, and mood swings. Lack of quality sleep makes it harder for students to concentrate, retain information, and perform well in school. Plus, the condition can contribute to physical problems like obesity and weakened immune systems.
Screening from Our Manhattan Sleep Apnea Dentist
A dental sleep apnea screening is a straightforward process at Morningside Dental Care. Our Manhattan sleep apnea dentist starts with a review of medical history, sleep patterns, and symptoms.
Dentists are trained to recognize when something is off with your oral health. That includes looking for telltale signs of sleep apnea, even during routine dental checkups. Physical indicators in your mouth, throat, and airway may include:
- Small Jaw
- Enlarged Tonsils
- Worn Teeth
In some cases, our sleep apnea dentist in Manhattan may recommend an at-home sleep test using VivoScore™. We can also work together with a sleep specialist for further evaluation and treatment. This comprehensive, collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of your sleep apnea are considered, leading to an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
The Importance of Early Detection and Intervention
Addressing sleep apnea early—whether for you or your child—can improve sleep quality, enhance academic or work performance, and boost well-being. Dental checkups provide an opportunity to screen for sleep apnea and other health concerns, so make sure you visit Morningside Dental Care twice a year.
By partnering with our sleep apnea dentist in Manhattan, you can ensure that any signs of sleep apnea are identified and treated promptly. You’ll feel more rested while chasing after your kids and coordinating family schedules during the school year. If your child has sleep apnea, treating their condition can help set them up for academic and social success.
Manhattan Sleep Apnea Dentist Protects Zzzs and A+s
Sleep apnea can get in the way of a good night’s sleep—literally. Thankfully, with Morningside Dental Care’s screenings and treatments like oral appliance therapy, your family can enjoy restful nights. If you’re in New York City, consult our sleep apnea dentist in Manhattan today to explore your options and schedule a screening.